Getting a new puppy is a little like being invaded by aliens- cute, fluffy, wiggly aliens, but aliens nonetheless. Humans and puppies don't innately understand each other, and this lack of understanding can turn a time that should be fun and exciting into a one full of anger, stress, and doubts.

Fortunately, there is help! Certified dog trainer Kathy Callahan specializes in families and their new puppies acclimate to one another and achieve a smooth transition into the household. Join us today for a discussion of all the highs and lows, ups and downs, of puppyhood!

For show notes and more, please go to Your Family Dog

A new year means new opportunities, new challenges, new hopes...and new books! Animal behaviorist-turned-novelist Patricia McConnell joins the show today to discuss her forthcoming book, "Away to Me." A murder mystery set in the world of sheepdog trials, "Away to Me" is part detective novel, part James Herriot essay, full of suspense and canines in equal measure. And the best part? None of the dogs die! Tune in to learn more about what is sure to be one of the best reads of 2026!

For show notes and more, please go to Your Family Dog.

Happy Throwback Thursday and Happy 2026! With the New Year comes New Year's resolutions of course, and so today we're revisiting an episode on that very topic- setting resolutions and goals for you and your dog that are realistic and achievable. Start 2026 off right by setting both you and your furry friend up for success!

Tina Spring and Julie Fudge Smith talk about some soft resolutions for the New Year. In other words: those things that one might have a chance of actually achieving! They offer ideas and suggestions for managing your dog a bit better so you can carve out 15 minutes a day to do something decadent like read a book or have a cup of tea!

For show notes and other information please go to: Your Family Dog